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Liz's Road Trip
Where one life ends, another is revealed.
Liz Evans is setting out on a cross-country road trip, with her grandmother’s cat, to carry out her grandmother’s final wishes. However, she’s about to learn that the coupon clipping woman who raised her was actually a wealthy, Hollywood icon who had her share of international lovers.
Mark Watts is only one of the secrets Liz’s grandmother kept from her. A biographer, he resides in Liz’s grandmother’s Palm Beach home, which Liz knew nothing about. As her guide into her grandmother’s past, Mark becomes a confidant, a friend, and more.
Though Liz’s journey is to learn about her grandmother, she finds these lessons turn inward. Content with her life of solitude, Liz is challenged to live a big fat life with no regrets--which just might include a crazy cat, a house in Palm Beach, and a man.
Liz Evans is setting out on a cross-country road trip, with her grandmother’s cat, to carry out her grandmother’s final wishes. However, she’s about to learn that the coupon clipping woman who raised her was actually a wealthy, Hollywood icon who had her share of international lovers.
Mark Watts is only one of the secrets Liz’s grandmother kept from her. A biographer, he resides in Liz’s grandmother’s Palm Beach home, which Liz knew nothing about. As her guide into her grandmother’s past, Mark becomes a confidant, a friend, and more.
Though Liz’s journey is to learn about her grandmother, she finds these lessons turn inward. Content with her life of solitude, Liz is challenged to live a big fat life with no regrets--which just might include a crazy cat, a house in Palm Beach, and a man.
420 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2023
38 people are currently reading
234 people want to read
About the author
Bernadette Marie
81 books779 followersBestselling Author Bernadette Marie writes contemporary romances and believes in Happily Ever After. The married mother of five believes in love at first sight, quick love, and second chances. An avid martial artist, Bernadette Marie is a certified instructor and holds a second degree black belt in Tang Soo Do. She loves Tai Chi, traveling to Disney parks, and having lunch with friends. When not writing, or running her own publishing house, Bernadette is probably immersed in a Rom Com, from which she will often quote one liners.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
June 7, 2023
This book needs a sequel. And to be made into a movie. I want to read it 10 more times it’s so good.
June 26, 2023
Liz and Mark’s Story along with the help of Betsy aka Genevieve Paige aka G.E. Paige.
For the past year Gran has been sick and got worse. Liz needed the help of staff to care for Gran so she put her in Hospice. There she sat by her side everyday. Grief is one of the hardest things anything should have to go through. It eats at you and consumes you. Grace her bestest friend is and always has been there for her through all the hard things. She clams her down and is able to give her peace when she has none. The stages of grief - acceptance, graciousness, anger, love, bitterness, and the cycles you go through because of it. And Bernadette describes it well as a vicious monster.
Watts was calling her grandmothers phone as he does on Sundays to check in. Little did he know that she had passed but Liz didn’t know this WATTS and didn’t want to talk right now. Persistent as he is he calls her on her phone because he knew something was up with Betsy. Liz finally talked with him. That ladies and gentlemen is the start of Liz’s Grand Adventure and Road Trip.
Liz writes articles for a magazine and in order to go on the adventure that her Grans has for her she talks with the magazine. She will do articles in relation to grief and how to get through and what she goes through along the way.
Watts is an author of biographies and is writing Betsy’s story as we learn. He knows the before Gran story and Liz knows the Gran story. Can they work together and understand each of their roles and how to piece it all together? Liz has the Red Letters in her possession and will bring them with her to Grans house for Mark. They text and talk to plan the trip especially since Liz doesn’t like flying.
Mark knows so much about Liz and Liz knows absolutely NOTHING about Mark. Will that change? Will they become friends? Or will they learn something that keeps them from fulfilling Grans wishes?
I don’t want to give away all the goodies within the story. It will be one that you fall in love with. This was an amazing read and has lots of good story building. Characters are well thought out. Romance tucked into the story. And stepping out of shells and comfort zones.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ plus all the more stars I wish I could give.
For the past year Gran has been sick and got worse. Liz needed the help of staff to care for Gran so she put her in Hospice. There she sat by her side everyday. Grief is one of the hardest things anything should have to go through. It eats at you and consumes you. Grace her bestest friend is and always has been there for her through all the hard things. She clams her down and is able to give her peace when she has none. The stages of grief - acceptance, graciousness, anger, love, bitterness, and the cycles you go through because of it. And Bernadette describes it well as a vicious monster.
Watts was calling her grandmothers phone as he does on Sundays to check in. Little did he know that she had passed but Liz didn’t know this WATTS and didn’t want to talk right now. Persistent as he is he calls her on her phone because he knew something was up with Betsy. Liz finally talked with him. That ladies and gentlemen is the start of Liz’s Grand Adventure and Road Trip.
Liz writes articles for a magazine and in order to go on the adventure that her Grans has for her she talks with the magazine. She will do articles in relation to grief and how to get through and what she goes through along the way.
Watts is an author of biographies and is writing Betsy’s story as we learn. He knows the before Gran story and Liz knows the Gran story. Can they work together and understand each of their roles and how to piece it all together? Liz has the Red Letters in her possession and will bring them with her to Grans house for Mark. They text and talk to plan the trip especially since Liz doesn’t like flying.
Mark knows so much about Liz and Liz knows absolutely NOTHING about Mark. Will that change? Will they become friends? Or will they learn something that keeps them from fulfilling Grans wishes?
I don’t want to give away all the goodies within the story. It will be one that you fall in love with. This was an amazing read and has lots of good story building. Characters are well thought out. Romance tucked into the story. And stepping out of shells and comfort zones.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ plus all the more stars I wish I could give.
June 27, 2023
Liz's Road Trip is a transformative journey where fears, secrets, and hidden identities intertwine. When air travel-phobic Liz sets off on a cross-country adventure with her grandmother's cat, she discovers that the frugal woman who raised her had a glamorous past as a Hollywood star with a reputation for living (loving?) life to the fullest. Her guide to unraveling her grandmother's past is Mark Watts, a biographer residing in her grandmother's Palm Beach home. As Liz's relationship with Mark deepens, she realizes maybe her grandmother knew more about living a meaningful life than Liz does. A cat. A romance. A road trip. Bernadette Marie has pulled off another page-flipper!
June 6, 2023
Liz has always known her Gran's final wish, and now the time has come. But there's more to Gran's last wish, just as there was more to Gran's life than being Liz’s grandmother and their shared lives in Denver, Colorado. Liz will undertake the road trip adventure of her life to fulfill Gran's wishes as she takes Gran home to Palm Beach, Florida—a road trip, as Liz will not fly. Liz's companion for the journey will be Cosmo, Gran's cat. This is a road trip of discovery. Self-discovery and the discovery of the grandmother Liz thought she knew.
I loved every breathtaking minute of reading this story. Every visualization. Every emotion. Every. Breathtaking. Minute. This is love. This is joy. Even as a heart is aching with loss, it can still sparkle in finding the steps forward, hugging the memories dancing through your mind, releasing the tears as the thoughts and feelings overflow with all that brought you to this time. This time when you've lost the wind beneath your wings. It is not an end. It is the beginning. It is a reminder to live. To live in the present. To live fully. To be grateful. To live joyfully. To love.
The story is beautifully written. It is written with love. If I could, I'd give it a star rating of all the stars in the universe. I’ve read a lot of books. I’ve written a lot of book reviews. I’ve never even thought about wanting to give that star rating before now. In this moment of our time, I give you my heartfelt book recommendation and joyously wish you a life well-lived. Read the novel. You'll understand. It's a message for readers to internalize in their own lives and pass it on.
I was lucky to receive an Advance Reader’s Edition of this title as an Early Reviewer from LibraryThing. The opinions expressed in the review are my own.
I loved every breathtaking minute of reading this story. Every visualization. Every emotion. Every. Breathtaking. Minute. This is love. This is joy. Even as a heart is aching with loss, it can still sparkle in finding the steps forward, hugging the memories dancing through your mind, releasing the tears as the thoughts and feelings overflow with all that brought you to this time. This time when you've lost the wind beneath your wings. It is not an end. It is the beginning. It is a reminder to live. To live in the present. To live fully. To be grateful. To live joyfully. To love.
The story is beautifully written. It is written with love. If I could, I'd give it a star rating of all the stars in the universe. I’ve read a lot of books. I’ve written a lot of book reviews. I’ve never even thought about wanting to give that star rating before now. In this moment of our time, I give you my heartfelt book recommendation and joyously wish you a life well-lived. Read the novel. You'll understand. It's a message for readers to internalize in their own lives and pass it on.
I was lucky to receive an Advance Reader’s Edition of this title as an Early Reviewer from LibraryThing. The opinions expressed in the review are my own.
September 30, 2023
Liz’s Road Trip by Bernadette Marie opens on our main character Liz as she comes to terms with the passing of her grandmother. We quickly get a picture of Liz’s life as we meet her best friend and witness an interaction with her boss that makes it clear Liz’s need for adventure isn’t due to being unhappy in her work.
Liz’s friend Grace is more of a sister and her harshly honest moments with Liz are another hint that Liz needs to experience some shaking up!
And as of on cue, we meet Mark - Mark who holds the key to who her grandma was before she took on Liz and became who she needed. Liz’s grandma may have been keeping some secrets, some big secrets. While we (and Liz) may never fully understand why, I think part of it was because she knew that Liz uncovering those secrets may just be the way to get her motivated to live a more full life. Liz has some hang ups, and she has been comfortable working around them because she was content. Liz begins to see that maybe she has been a little selfish and missing out as she lets others fill the voids her hang ups keep her from dealing with.
Her grandmother loved her and wanted her to be open to adventure, and Mark is just the beginning I think!
Loved the journey, loved the cat, loved the secrets being revealed.
Liz is angsty and at times I wanted to slap her, but when you are in the precontemplative stage of change it can be uncomfortable. Liz is grappling with who she is and that is one of the biggest challenges we face, especially when realizing change is needed even when things are seemingly good in life. Thankful Liz’s grandmother knew her so well and left her Mark and a mystery to unravel to help her see life is so much more than a comfortable job and going through the motions!
Liz’s friend Grace is more of a sister and her harshly honest moments with Liz are another hint that Liz needs to experience some shaking up!
And as of on cue, we meet Mark - Mark who holds the key to who her grandma was before she took on Liz and became who she needed. Liz’s grandma may have been keeping some secrets, some big secrets. While we (and Liz) may never fully understand why, I think part of it was because she knew that Liz uncovering those secrets may just be the way to get her motivated to live a more full life. Liz has some hang ups, and she has been comfortable working around them because she was content. Liz begins to see that maybe she has been a little selfish and missing out as she lets others fill the voids her hang ups keep her from dealing with.
Her grandmother loved her and wanted her to be open to adventure, and Mark is just the beginning I think!
Loved the journey, loved the cat, loved the secrets being revealed.
Liz is angsty and at times I wanted to slap her, but when you are in the precontemplative stage of change it can be uncomfortable. Liz is grappling with who she is and that is one of the biggest challenges we face, especially when realizing change is needed even when things are seemingly good in life. Thankful Liz’s grandmother knew her so well and left her Mark and a mystery to unravel to help her see life is so much more than a comfortable job and going through the motions!
July 2, 2023
this was my first bernadette marie book and it did not disappoint. i really loved this story, it followed liz who had to complete her grandma wishes after she passes away. she embarks on a cross country road trip to spread her grandmas ashes in different locations. she learns that her grandma had a whole different life she kept secret from her. liz also meets an unexpected man during her journey and feelings start to grow.
i really enjoyed the setting of this book, i thought the road trip was really fun. i loved hearing about all the different sights and stops she made on the way to florida.
i also really liked mark he was so sweet and caring towards liz even though he didn’t really know her. i did like liz too but i also found her a little annoying sometimes because she was so quick to assume the worst of everyone.
as the book went on i enjoyed discovering more about liz’s grandma and her past life. i loved reading the letters are trying to figure out who was writing to her and who she was involved with. it added a fun mystery aspect to the book as well!
i recommend this book if you are looking for your next comfort read. i really enjoyed it! thank you so much to bernadette marie for sending me a copy!
i really enjoyed the setting of this book, i thought the road trip was really fun. i loved hearing about all the different sights and stops she made on the way to florida.
i also really liked mark he was so sweet and caring towards liz even though he didn’t really know her. i did like liz too but i also found her a little annoying sometimes because she was so quick to assume the worst of everyone.
as the book went on i enjoyed discovering more about liz’s grandma and her past life. i loved reading the letters are trying to figure out who was writing to her and who she was involved with. it added a fun mystery aspect to the book as well!
i recommend this book if you are looking for your next comfort read. i really enjoyed it! thank you so much to bernadette marie for sending me a copy!
September 4, 2023
I cannot find the words to describe how much I loved this book. My heart broke for Liz within the first few pages as she said goodbye to her Gran because I know how special that bond can be. My heart then quickly rebounded as Mark Watts entered her life. I felt all the emotions through the pages of this book - sadness, happiness, anger, love, grief. It also made me think of my own grandparents and the lives they had that I didn't know about - because they were always just grandparents to me.
As Liz sets out on her adventure to fulfil her Gran's last wishes, I found myself cheering her on, wanting her to takes the risks, live a big fat life and enjoy the adventure. It seems as if Liz's grandmother knew exactly what she was doing, who she was leading Liz to as her life entertwines quickly with Mark's. Honestly, I was rooting for him to be hers since Nashville (IYKYK).
Even though this book is about Liz taking her big adventure, it feels like, as the reader, you're also taking an adventure. I love that. I love the feels this book makes you feel. This was my frist Benadette Marie book and I cannot wait to read more.
Thank you to Bernadette Marie and 5 Prince Publishing for a copy of the book in exchance for my honest review.
As Liz sets out on her adventure to fulfil her Gran's last wishes, I found myself cheering her on, wanting her to takes the risks, live a big fat life and enjoy the adventure. It seems as if Liz's grandmother knew exactly what she was doing, who she was leading Liz to as her life entertwines quickly with Mark's. Honestly, I was rooting for him to be hers since Nashville (IYKYK).
Even though this book is about Liz taking her big adventure, it feels like, as the reader, you're also taking an adventure. I love that. I love the feels this book makes you feel. This was my frist Benadette Marie book and I cannot wait to read more.
Thank you to Bernadette Marie and 5 Prince Publishing for a copy of the book in exchance for my honest review.
July 31, 2023
Trigger Warning:
Loss of a loved one
Cancer
Liz's Road Trip follows Liz whose grandmother has just passed away. Her grandmother's final wish was for Liz to go on a road trip and spread her ashes. Liz finds out that her grandmother was a Hollywood icon. Mark Watts is a biographer who lives in her grandmother's Palm Beach home. He becomes a guide to Liz on her grandmother's past. Mark soon becomes Liz's friend, confidant, and link to her grandmother's past. However, soon Mark might be more than that to Liz.
Thank you so much 5 Prince Publishing and Bernadette Marie for a copy of this book. I thought this book was just okay. I was not too fond of the idea of a romance happening in a book that deals with grief. It took away from the message of the story. I also did not really feel like there was a romance between the main characters. But I did like that Liz was able to learn more about her grandmother throughout this book. I felt like this book did drag on a little. I have not read any other books by this author. This did make me want to read more by her though.
Loss of a loved one
Cancer
Liz's Road Trip follows Liz whose grandmother has just passed away. Her grandmother's final wish was for Liz to go on a road trip and spread her ashes. Liz finds out that her grandmother was a Hollywood icon. Mark Watts is a biographer who lives in her grandmother's Palm Beach home. He becomes a guide to Liz on her grandmother's past. Mark soon becomes Liz's friend, confidant, and link to her grandmother's past. However, soon Mark might be more than that to Liz.
Thank you so much 5 Prince Publishing and Bernadette Marie for a copy of this book. I thought this book was just okay. I was not too fond of the idea of a romance happening in a book that deals with grief. It took away from the message of the story. I also did not really feel like there was a romance between the main characters. But I did like that Liz was able to learn more about her grandmother throughout this book. I felt like this book did drag on a little. I have not read any other books by this author. This did make me want to read more by her though.
August 2, 2023
Liz Evans is grieving the loss of her grandmother when she finds out the woman who she was incredibly close to, had a whole separate life that Liz knew nothing about. Discovering she has a mansion in Florida and close friends with a man named Mark Watts is just another dagger to her heart on trying to understand why the secrets. Driving cross country with her grandmother's cat she hopes to fill in the gaps. Little did Liz know that her grandmother was an actress and she had several affairs of the heart and Mark is the writer who she was collaborating with on her biography. Throw in an undeniable attraction to Mark and you have the making of a wonderful story.
I liked that this book was unpredictable. I wanted to know more about Liz's grandmother Betsy from the beginning. I thought Liz was great, I appreciated that she was having a tough time especially when there was so many secrets. Mark was intriguing, I really enjoyed how the build up with the Mark and Liz story unfolded.
I liked that this book was unpredictable. I wanted to know more about Liz's grandmother Betsy from the beginning. I thought Liz was great, I appreciated that she was having a tough time especially when there was so many secrets. Mark was intriguing, I really enjoyed how the build up with the Mark and Liz story unfolded.
August 17, 2023
This book was uplifting and beautiful. My first read by the author, and definitely a great introduction to her books.
Liz was such an amazing character! Watching her break out of her shell to find love, happiness and herself felt like a defining moment many can relate too. Her grandma how many lessons she shared in the afterlife. It was a great read.
Liz was such an amazing character! Watching her break out of her shell to find love, happiness and herself felt like a defining moment many can relate too. Her grandma how many lessons she shared in the afterlife. It was a great read.
July 8, 2023
This was such a good book!! I have a Grace and a Cosmos, so I totally related to that aspect of the story. I felt like grabbing Liz by the shoulders and shaking her. I wanted her to not be so stubborn about not staying with Mark. She was truly blessed, but it just took her a while to realize how much. It turned out how I wanted though.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2023
What an adorably cute book about how death teaches you to live!
January 23, 2025
This was ok. The main character was a bit annoying about everything, which started to really bug me the more I read.
October 3, 2023
I absolutely loved this book and the characters. It was fun seeing Liz overcome some of her fears and learn things about her Grandma that she didn't know. Liz is surrounded by people who love her and help her through so many different things. She has a really good friend in Grace and Mark. Mark proves over and over again that he is the most perfect guy to help Liz.
September 25, 2023
Liz's grandmother, the woman who raised her since the time she was 10, has died and Liz is heartbroken. What is she going to do now? Alone with Gran's 'stupid cat' Cosmo?
Liz finds a letter from her grandmother which sets her out on a cross country road trip and a journey of discovery -- both about herself and about a grandmother that she only knew a piece of.
Liz goes through so many emotions during her journey and I loved watching her figure things out. Her grief is raw so keep that in mind if that is a trigger for you. It was a quick read full of adventure, epic friendship, funny cat anecdotes, old Hollywood and a spicy love interest. Mark was oh so dreamy and the most supportive guy you could ever want. I loved their instant connection and ease with each other. I did get annoyed with Liz's frequent denial of their relationship but overall, really enjoyed this sweet read
Liz finds a letter from her grandmother which sets her out on a cross country road trip and a journey of discovery -- both about herself and about a grandmother that she only knew a piece of.
Liz goes through so many emotions during her journey and I loved watching her figure things out. Her grief is raw so keep that in mind if that is a trigger for you. It was a quick read full of adventure, epic friendship, funny cat anecdotes, old Hollywood and a spicy love interest. Mark was oh so dreamy and the most supportive guy you could ever want. I loved their instant connection and ease with each other. I did get annoyed with Liz's frequent denial of their relationship but overall, really enjoyed this sweet read
January 25, 2025
Emotional read. Good story building. Characters are well thought out. Wholesome, feel good story.
She must overcome her fears and navigate life after the death of her grandmother. She has to complete her grandmothers final wishes. During the journey she finds herself and realizes her full potential while finding love and friends on the way.
She must overcome her fears and navigate life after the death of her grandmother. She has to complete her grandmothers final wishes. During the journey she finds herself and realizes her full potential while finding love and friends on the way.
October 25, 2024
📚 BOOK TOUR BOOK REVIEW 📚
Liz's Road Trip By Bernadette Marie
Publication Date: August 1, 2023
Publisher: 5 Prince Publishing
📚MY RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
(Rounded Up To 5⭐)
📚MY REVIEW:
🚨 Heart-Warming Story Alert!! 🚨
Liz's Road Trip was an absolutely beautiful adventure through grief, self-discovery, and opening oneself up to true love. This read really pulled me in on an emotional level, and I fell in love with this story... Plain and simple.
The book begins with Liz, our female main character, saying goodbye to her Gran, who became her caregiver when Liz's single mother died when Liz was just ten years old. Gran is the only family Liz has left, other than her chosen family, her best friend Grace. As Liz grapples with the loss of Gran and begins settling her affairs, she begins to see that Gran had an entire other life before she came to care for Liz. And with the help of a mysterious man, Watts, who is somehow connected to Gran in Palm Beach, Florida...Liz sets off on an adventure that uncovers her Gran's incredible past -- a past she never shared with Liz when she was alive.
Books with incredible and loveable characters always make me smile, and this book was no exception. There wasn't a single character in these pages I didn't adore, and I just wanted to be a fly on the wall to watch every one of their interactions.
This book was a little bit of everything: a love story, a coming-of-age story (of sorts), a story about grief, a road trip, a story about family bonds, and even a little mystery that is slowly revealed throughout the pages. If you enjoy stories that will make you feel good, stories that fill your heart, and really solid storylines about the love of family -- I promise you that you will fall in love with Liz's Road Trip as much as I did.
I'm so grateful to have had the opportunity to be a part of this book tour! A huge thank you to Kate Rock Book Tours, 5 Prince Publishing, and Bernadette Marie for sending me a physical copy of this book in exchange for my participation in the book tour and my honest review. And don't mind me, I'll just be over here, swooning over this book, for days to come. ❤️
#LizsRoadTrip #BernadetteMarie #5PrincePublishing #booktour #KateRockBookTours #bookreviews #bookrecommendations #bookrecs #WomensFiction #ContemporaryFiction
#SelfDiscovery #Romance #CatCompanion #PageTurner #bookworm #writing #booklover
#bestsellingauthor #reading #author #romancenovels #hea #bookaholic
#contemporaryromance #booknerd #book
#books #roadtrip #romancewithcats
#matchmaking #bookaddict #booknerd
Liz's Road Trip By Bernadette Marie
Publication Date: August 1, 2023
Publisher: 5 Prince Publishing
📚MY RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
(Rounded Up To 5⭐)
📚MY REVIEW:
🚨 Heart-Warming Story Alert!! 🚨
Liz's Road Trip was an absolutely beautiful adventure through grief, self-discovery, and opening oneself up to true love. This read really pulled me in on an emotional level, and I fell in love with this story... Plain and simple.
The book begins with Liz, our female main character, saying goodbye to her Gran, who became her caregiver when Liz's single mother died when Liz was just ten years old. Gran is the only family Liz has left, other than her chosen family, her best friend Grace. As Liz grapples with the loss of Gran and begins settling her affairs, she begins to see that Gran had an entire other life before she came to care for Liz. And with the help of a mysterious man, Watts, who is somehow connected to Gran in Palm Beach, Florida...Liz sets off on an adventure that uncovers her Gran's incredible past -- a past she never shared with Liz when she was alive.
Books with incredible and loveable characters always make me smile, and this book was no exception. There wasn't a single character in these pages I didn't adore, and I just wanted to be a fly on the wall to watch every one of their interactions.
This book was a little bit of everything: a love story, a coming-of-age story (of sorts), a story about grief, a road trip, a story about family bonds, and even a little mystery that is slowly revealed throughout the pages. If you enjoy stories that will make you feel good, stories that fill your heart, and really solid storylines about the love of family -- I promise you that you will fall in love with Liz's Road Trip as much as I did.
I'm so grateful to have had the opportunity to be a part of this book tour! A huge thank you to Kate Rock Book Tours, 5 Prince Publishing, and Bernadette Marie for sending me a physical copy of this book in exchange for my participation in the book tour and my honest review. And don't mind me, I'll just be over here, swooning over this book, for days to come. ❤️
#LizsRoadTrip #BernadetteMarie #5PrincePublishing #booktour #KateRockBookTours #bookreviews #bookrecommendations #bookrecs #WomensFiction #ContemporaryFiction
#SelfDiscovery #Romance #CatCompanion #PageTurner #bookworm #writing #booklover
#bestsellingauthor #reading #author #romancenovels #hea #bookaholic
#contemporaryromance #booknerd #book
#books #roadtrip #romancewithcats
#matchmaking #bookaddict #booknerd
August 31, 2023
Liz’s Road Trip by Bernadette Marie is an emotional yet hopeful little gem of a book!!!
The book opens on a pretty sad note. Liz Evans has just lost her beloved grandmother. As she is going through her things, she finds a letter that will completely change her life. Her Gran wants her to take her back to her home, in Florida. When she gets there, a mystery man, Mark, will tell her all about the Gran that she didn’t know. So, she embarks on a trip with Gran and Gran’s cat, Cosmo, that will possibly end up being an adventure that could finally lead her to a forever romance and a life filled with joy beyond her imagination!
At times, Liz was extremely frustrating for me. Her moods could swing from hot to cold, especially in her burgeoning relationship with Mark. I wanted to shake some sense into her, but as I sat back and digested more of her story, I began to understand her more and have sympathy for her. She just lost the woman who sacrificed so much to raise her after Liz’s mother died. In addition, she discovers that her grandmother had many secrets and had a life she knew nothing about. I imagine that Mark knowing those secrets impacted her relationship with him as well. It was all those complicated and complex emotions that made the book so good.
There were so many reasons I loved this book. I liked that Marie pulled on my heartstrings and had me really invested in the characters, especially Liz. Gran was not physically present in the book, but she played such a pivotal role in the plot and pacing of the book. She was still teaching Liz lessons after she was gone. My favorite thing about the book was the growth that Liz went through. She began the book as pretty self-centered, but by the end of the book, a lot of that self-centeredness was gone. Most importantly, she went from just living a good life to a life well-lived, and that is exactly what Gran wanted for her all along.
I haven’t read a book by Bernadette Smalls, but this one won’t be my last one. She is a very talented writer who knows exactly how to pull her readers smack dab in the middle of her story. If you like a sweet romance full of emotions, you should definitely give this one a try!!!!
The book opens on a pretty sad note. Liz Evans has just lost her beloved grandmother. As she is going through her things, she finds a letter that will completely change her life. Her Gran wants her to take her back to her home, in Florida. When she gets there, a mystery man, Mark, will tell her all about the Gran that she didn’t know. So, she embarks on a trip with Gran and Gran’s cat, Cosmo, that will possibly end up being an adventure that could finally lead her to a forever romance and a life filled with joy beyond her imagination!
At times, Liz was extremely frustrating for me. Her moods could swing from hot to cold, especially in her burgeoning relationship with Mark. I wanted to shake some sense into her, but as I sat back and digested more of her story, I began to understand her more and have sympathy for her. She just lost the woman who sacrificed so much to raise her after Liz’s mother died. In addition, she discovers that her grandmother had many secrets and had a life she knew nothing about. I imagine that Mark knowing those secrets impacted her relationship with him as well. It was all those complicated and complex emotions that made the book so good.
There were so many reasons I loved this book. I liked that Marie pulled on my heartstrings and had me really invested in the characters, especially Liz. Gran was not physically present in the book, but she played such a pivotal role in the plot and pacing of the book. She was still teaching Liz lessons after she was gone. My favorite thing about the book was the growth that Liz went through. She began the book as pretty self-centered, but by the end of the book, a lot of that self-centeredness was gone. Most importantly, she went from just living a good life to a life well-lived, and that is exactly what Gran wanted for her all along.
I haven’t read a book by Bernadette Smalls, but this one won’t be my last one. She is a very talented writer who knows exactly how to pull her readers smack dab in the middle of her story. If you like a sweet romance full of emotions, you should definitely give this one a try!!!!
November 6, 2024
Where one life ends, another is revealed in this heartwarming tale, Liz's Road Trip.
Liz Evans is about to embark on the most transformative journey of her life, all while carrying out her grandmother’s final wishes—with her grandmother's cat, Cosmo, in tow!🐈
As Liz sets off on a cross-country road trip to uncover her late grandmother's secrets, she discovers that the frugal woman who raised her was hiding a glamorous past as a Hollywood icon.
Enter Mark Watts, a biographer living in her grandmother's Palm Beach home, who becomes her guide to this unexpected legacy.
Together, they navigate the intertwined paths of grief, self-discovery, and the blooming romance that develops along the way.
Liz's adventure is more than just about uncovering the past; it’s a heartfelt lesson in living boldly, shaking off the shackles of solitude, and embracing a life with no regrets. As her relationship with Mark deepens, she learns to step out of her comfort zone and realize there’s so much more to life than she ever imagined.
Why You Should Read It:
🐈Transformative Journey: Liz's growth from self-centeredness to embracing life's fullness is relatable and inspiring.
🐈Heartfelt Lessons: It beautifully explores the stages of grief and the importance of friendship and love in healing.
🐈Engaging Characters: Liz, Mark, and the endearing Cosmo create a delightful dynamic that will keep you turning pages.
🐈Secrets and Surprises: Unravel the mystery of Gran's past while enjoying a slow-burn romance that blossoms on the road.
Whether you’re in it for the laughs, the emotional depth, or the charming road trip vibes, this book delivers it all with a sprinkle of humor and a dash of heartfelt moments.
Grab your copy of Liz's Road Trip and join Liz on her adventure—because life is to be lived, honey! 💫📚
🏷️: #LizsRoadTrip #WomensFiction #ContemporaryFiction #BernadetteMarie
#SelfDiscovery #Romance #CatCompanion #PageTurner #bookworm
#writing #booklover #bestsellingauthor
#reading #authorsofinstagram #author
#bookstagram #romancenovels #hea
#contemporaryromance #romancewithcats #matchmaking #5princepublishing
Liz Evans is about to embark on the most transformative journey of her life, all while carrying out her grandmother’s final wishes—with her grandmother's cat, Cosmo, in tow!🐈
As Liz sets off on a cross-country road trip to uncover her late grandmother's secrets, she discovers that the frugal woman who raised her was hiding a glamorous past as a Hollywood icon.
Enter Mark Watts, a biographer living in her grandmother's Palm Beach home, who becomes her guide to this unexpected legacy.
Together, they navigate the intertwined paths of grief, self-discovery, and the blooming romance that develops along the way.
Liz's adventure is more than just about uncovering the past; it’s a heartfelt lesson in living boldly, shaking off the shackles of solitude, and embracing a life with no regrets. As her relationship with Mark deepens, she learns to step out of her comfort zone and realize there’s so much more to life than she ever imagined.
Why You Should Read It:
🐈Transformative Journey: Liz's growth from self-centeredness to embracing life's fullness is relatable and inspiring.
🐈Heartfelt Lessons: It beautifully explores the stages of grief and the importance of friendship and love in healing.
🐈Engaging Characters: Liz, Mark, and the endearing Cosmo create a delightful dynamic that will keep you turning pages.
🐈Secrets and Surprises: Unravel the mystery of Gran's past while enjoying a slow-burn romance that blossoms on the road.
Whether you’re in it for the laughs, the emotional depth, or the charming road trip vibes, this book delivers it all with a sprinkle of humor and a dash of heartfelt moments.
Grab your copy of Liz's Road Trip and join Liz on her adventure—because life is to be lived, honey! 💫📚
🏷️: #LizsRoadTrip #WomensFiction #ContemporaryFiction #BernadetteMarie
#SelfDiscovery #Romance #CatCompanion #PageTurner #bookworm
#writing #booklover #bestsellingauthor
#reading #authorsofinstagram #author
#bookstagram #romancenovels #hea
#contemporaryromance #romancewithcats #matchmaking #5princepublishing
August 3, 2023
Liz’s Road Trip is a beautifully written, wholesome, feel-good story about one woman’s journey after the loss of a loved one. The story centers around the character of Liz who has just lost her grandmother to cancer. When Liz goes through her grandmother’s phone, she discovers contact information for individuals she does not know. Information for financial advisors and messages from guys calling her grandmother “doll” peek Liz’s interest and has Liz questioning who her grandmother was. When one of her grandmother’s contacts calls persistently Liz finally answer. She is shocked to discover this stranger named Mark knows who she is and seems to have a lot of personal information on her. Then he drops the bomb that he is living in her grandmother’s house in Florida. This cannot be true, and this guy must be pulling a scam because her grandma did not own a home in Florida. As Mark and Liz talk it is discovered that Mark is a biographer who is writing about her grandma’s glamourous past as a Hollywood star who had a zest for life. Liz is surprised to learn about her grandma’s past and her secret life. Liz only knows her grandma as the sweet, loving person she grew up with. With her curiosity piqued Liz sets off on a road trip with her grandma’s cat to fulfill her grandma’s final wishes and to hopefully get answers. Through her journey Liz makes discoveries about herself, makes a friend in Mark, gains a confidante, and learns to live and love life. This was a heartfelt and uplifting story of Liz’s journey as she navigated through grief and loss of her grandma by learning more about her grandma’s past. I highly recommend this book!
August 23, 2023
I really loved this book. Liz is a young woman who is a writer for a magazine. At the story's beginning, we find out that her grandmother is about to pass. She is the only person Liz has in her life, minus her best friend. After her grandmother’s passing, she is trying to figure out what to do next, she feels she doesn’t have anybody. Well, she starts to handle her grandmother’s affairs and starts to find out that Gran has many secrets. These secrets lead her on a journey of her own. Liz is a girl who doesn’t go anywhere, try new things, and definitely does not fly. However, because her grandmother has certain wishes for her, she goes on this journey to find out who this woman really was, and in the process finds herself. This is also a love story of many. She isn’t sure if the journey will be worth it, but she loves her grandmother so much that she is willing to try.
Sooo much happens in this story and I didn’t want to give too much away. What I will say is that Liz is the character that you watch grow over her experience. I think she is very relatable to many people with her intimidations in life, dealing with death, and then trying to find a new life beyond those people. There were times when I found her a little annoying, but it was more personal than anything about the book itself. I found this book to be quite healing in a way; it gives perspective on life and death. I also enjoyed many of the other characters that you come to learn about, especially Mark. He is so special in this book and the character is smart, lovable, patient, and kind. It was also quick-paced so I will be interested in reading other books by this author.
Sooo much happens in this story and I didn’t want to give too much away. What I will say is that Liz is the character that you watch grow over her experience. I think she is very relatable to many people with her intimidations in life, dealing with death, and then trying to find a new life beyond those people. There were times when I found her a little annoying, but it was more personal than anything about the book itself. I found this book to be quite healing in a way; it gives perspective on life and death. I also enjoyed many of the other characters that you come to learn about, especially Mark. He is so special in this book and the character is smart, lovable, patient, and kind. It was also quick-paced so I will be interested in reading other books by this author.
September 13, 2023
“Live with no regrets.” – Gran
A new-to-me-author, Bernadette Marie delivers both laughs and poignant tugs on the heartstrings. A gem that embodies the heart’s journey and reveals a story of love, loss and cherished moments. And to avoid any spoilers, I’ll remain mum on the details.
In the beginning, I had a tough time warming to Liz, who I found to be self-centered, selfish and childish for her age. I wondered if I would be able to like her character and feel much sympathy towards her. She expected too much from others – very needy. Her grandmother may carry some responsibility for her behavior. I adored Mark from the minute he appeared on the page – and was amazed by his patience with Liz.
And then there’s Cosmo, the cat who steals a lot of the scenes with his own strong personality while playing an important role in the story as well.
The more I read the more I fell in love with this author’s writing. Not a minute wasted on trivialities or the dreaded repetitive language. There’s romance – but it’s not graphically detailed and it’s slow burn. The story stays on point and delivers an emotionally charged plot that fully engages mind, heart and spirit. Liz's road trip was an unexpected surprise.
This book shines brightest in its ability to be funny and light one moment, then changes to a deeply emotional and profound look at life and death the next. This may be my first time reading this author’s work, but I’m certainly looking forward to checking out her backlist of books.
October 23, 2024
What a fun road trip story! I loved getting to know these endearing and relatable characters.
Liz is grieving her beloved grandmother, who raised her. Liz is a bit of a loner, save her best friend Grace. She also plays it safe and is afraid of flying. I can’t blame her there—I hate flying, too. That’s why she's road-tripping to Florida with her grandmother’s ashes and her grandmother’s cat, too.
I also really liked Mark Watts, a biographer working with Liz’s grandmother, Betsy. He was funny, kind, and flirty. When he contacted Liz, it was quite a shock. Liz knew nothing of her grandmother’s famous past or that her grandmother was wealthy.
I loved how this book unfolded. As Mark shares information about Betsy’s past with Liz, they find comfort in each other. The sparks are undeniable. But Liz must learn about living without regrets and loving the next adventure. I felt like her grandmother was teaching Liz things even after she was gone; there was so much heart and emotion.
A delightful and heartwarming story about grief, secrets, overcoming fears, and finding love!
🚗Road trip
✈️Fear of flying
😭Grief and loss
👵🏻Grandma has a famous past
🐈⬛Cat companion
❤️Slow burn romance
Thank you @katerockbooktours and @authorbernadettemarie for a spot on tour and a gifted book.
August 7, 2023
I’m always excited when this author has a new book out, and I was definitely not disappointed by this latest novel. The storyline focuses on Liz Evans who has set out on a cross-country road trip, along with her grandmother’s cat, to carry out the final wishes of her grandmother. Along the way Liz learns that the grandmother that she knew, who was always collecting coupons was actually a very wealthy women, and a Hollywood icon who had many international lovers. Having been raised by Betsy, Liz is shocked by her discoveries, and even more so when she meets biographer, Mark Watts, who is living in her grandmother’s Palm Beach home, which she also knew nothing about. Mark is then able to tell Liz about her grandmother’s past, becoming a confidant in the process. As their friendship turns into something more and their relationship develops, the Liz who likes her solitude realises that she might just need a house in Palm Beach, a man and her grandmother’s crazy cat to be happy! I thoroughly enjoyed this heartwarming romance which had me hooked from page one. I loved the characters and the chemistry between Liz and Mark really came across in the narrative. An enjoyable and engaging read.
August 2, 2023
Liz's Road Trip by Bernadette Marie is a delightful contemporary romance story.
One quirky young woman. One cat. Secrets from the past. A road trip. A romance.
The characters are engaging and well developed with flaws and with their own distinct personalities. Whilst Liz did annoy me a few times I did enjoy the story.
This story has everything that makes it a sweet read that is full of grief and sorrow, passion and some humour, hope and love, steam and some wit. This story is also full of secrets and fears, reflection and healing. This compelling story is full of twists, turns and a few loops.
It is so easy to get lost in this tale and before you know it you have come to the end. It is also told in dual POV which is my favourite way to tell a story.
Liz's Road Trip reveals secrets of a woman simply known as Grandma to her. It appears there was a lot more to Grandma than she ever knew. A life that she never knew about. Revealing her grandma’s past is helped along by a stranger. As she peels back the layers of her grandma’s life, she learns how to truly live.
As always, I look forward to more from Bernadette.
One quirky young woman. One cat. Secrets from the past. A road trip. A romance.
The characters are engaging and well developed with flaws and with their own distinct personalities. Whilst Liz did annoy me a few times I did enjoy the story.
This story has everything that makes it a sweet read that is full of grief and sorrow, passion and some humour, hope and love, steam and some wit. This story is also full of secrets and fears, reflection and healing. This compelling story is full of twists, turns and a few loops.
It is so easy to get lost in this tale and before you know it you have come to the end. It is also told in dual POV which is my favourite way to tell a story.
Liz's Road Trip reveals secrets of a woman simply known as Grandma to her. It appears there was a lot more to Grandma than she ever knew. A life that she never knew about. Revealing her grandma’s past is helped along by a stranger. As she peels back the layers of her grandma’s life, she learns how to truly live.
As always, I look forward to more from Bernadette.
August 3, 2023
Liz’s Road Trip by Bernadette Marie is available now
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review
I would have to say Liz’s Road Trip was one of the best books I have read this year. Liz stole my heart in this novel. Being raised by my grandma, I could relate to her in so many ways. I couldn’t imagine how she felt learning all the secrets her gram’s held onto all of those years. The characters in this novel were lovable, relatable, and down to earth. And Cosmo, well who wouldn’t have a soft spot for Cosmo. Bernadette Marie whisked me away on this one from the very beginning. I was able to read it in two days, picking it up to read every opportunity I had. This novel was moderately paced and kept me wanting more the entire time. The descriptive scenes had me feeling as if I was on this road trip of a journey right alongside Liz. This was my first time reading a novel written by Bernadette Marie and I will not hesitate in the future to pick up another. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a quick pick me up type of read, you won’t regret the decision to do so.
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review
I would have to say Liz’s Road Trip was one of the best books I have read this year. Liz stole my heart in this novel. Being raised by my grandma, I could relate to her in so many ways. I couldn’t imagine how she felt learning all the secrets her gram’s held onto all of those years. The characters in this novel were lovable, relatable, and down to earth. And Cosmo, well who wouldn’t have a soft spot for Cosmo. Bernadette Marie whisked me away on this one from the very beginning. I was able to read it in two days, picking it up to read every opportunity I had. This novel was moderately paced and kept me wanting more the entire time. The descriptive scenes had me feeling as if I was on this road trip of a journey right alongside Liz. This was my first time reading a novel written by Bernadette Marie and I will not hesitate in the future to pick up another. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a quick pick me up type of read, you won’t regret the decision to do so.
August 23, 2023
Liz's Road Trip by Bernadette Marie. This has quickly become one of my favorite authors. I loved this book. Its the story of Liz whose Grandmother has passed away and her grandmothers last wishes are soon to be known. Liz knows part of them but doesn't realize there is a lot more to them than her grandmother told her. Liz takes off from their hometown of Denver, Colorado and plans to travel to Palm Beach to spread her ashes. Traveling with her grandmothers cat she discovers all kinds of secrets once she gets there. One being her grandmother was a big Hollywood Star and has a mansion in Florida. Living in that mansion is her grandmothers good friend Mark who is writing her grandmothers biography. Finding out her grandmother had many affairs and lived a life Liz knew nothing about is blowing her mind. When there are sparks between Mark and Liz that just adds to the whole mess. I loved every second of this book. So fun and entertaining. Can't wait to read whatever else this author has in store!
September 23, 2023
Such a sweet endearing book about navigating life after the death of people most close to you. It shows the journey of finding yourself and realizing your full potential.
Liz has been through extremely traumatic events. She's scared to fly and was really scared to step out of her bubble at all. Little does she know that her grandmother has set a path for her to journey outside that bubble.
The love story that blossoms between Liz and Mark at times for me was frustrating. I wanted Liz to make more of an effort. They had so much going on in their lives that it made life complicated, though.
However, I resonated with Grace. She is the kind of bestie I am and like to have. She is unapologetically herself. Her words come across as blunt, but tough love is the only thing that gets through to some people.
Wanna go along the journey with Liz? Grab this book now and take that ride with her.
Thank you @authorbernadettemarie
@5princepub for sending me this ARC and allowing me to read and give my honest review.
Liz has been through extremely traumatic events. She's scared to fly and was really scared to step out of her bubble at all. Little does she know that her grandmother has set a path for her to journey outside that bubble.
The love story that blossoms between Liz and Mark at times for me was frustrating. I wanted Liz to make more of an effort. They had so much going on in their lives that it made life complicated, though.
However, I resonated with Grace. She is the kind of bestie I am and like to have. She is unapologetically herself. Her words come across as blunt, but tough love is the only thing that gets through to some people.
Wanna go along the journey with Liz? Grab this book now and take that ride with her.
Thank you @authorbernadettemarie
@5princepub for sending me this ARC and allowing me to read and give my honest review.
July 28, 2024
I loved this book so much. It was such a fun read, but heartfelt as well. While it is a romance, it also dealt with some really important topics such as phobias, grief, and coming to grips with hard truths. I loved the best friend character because she loved the main character, but she also held her accountable the way you’d want your best friend to. The love interest was amazing as well, and I enjoyed following that part of the main character’s journey. The main character was complex, and I even found myself going back and forth with feelings of frustration with her and compassion for what she was experiencing. I love reading books with characters like that because it keeps me engaged, and feels almost like I have my own role in the story as I read it.
In regards to spice level, this was a really great happy-medium that I enjoyed a lot. It was not closed door, but I also wouldn’t consider it fully open door, either. It was more like the door was cracked. That approach fit the characters and the plot really well.
In regards to spice level, this was a really great happy-medium that I enjoyed a lot. It was not closed door, but I also wouldn’t consider it fully open door, either. It was more like the door was cracked. That approach fit the characters and the plot really well.
August 1, 2023
𝘈 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘸𝘦𝘭𝘭 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘦𝘢𝘯𝘴 𝘯𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘨𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘴.
I absolutely loved the road trip setting. I kept imagining myself on the trip with Liz from Denver to Palm Beach. The grief Liz goes through is so raw and easily relatable. My heart melted over her bestie Grace and how she showed up for Liz and just helped - sitting with her, bringing her food, reminding her to shower, etc. She truly is the type of friend everyone deserves. Mark was so supportive, and their instant connection was believable. I loved their flirty banter and the mystery that he knew everything about her, but she knew nothing about him. My only complaint is that Liz was a little frustrating as she was always very quick to assume the worst.
TLDR: I definitely recommend this one. I was so caught up in the secret life and mystery that I couldn't turn the pages quickly enough!
✨️Contemporary Fiction
✨️Rom/Com
✨️Mystery
✨️Slow Burn
✨️Self Discovery
✨️Grandma's Secret Life
✨️Matchmaking
𝘓𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥, 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘺. 𝘌𝘯𝘫𝘰𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘥𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦.
I absolutely loved the road trip setting. I kept imagining myself on the trip with Liz from Denver to Palm Beach. The grief Liz goes through is so raw and easily relatable. My heart melted over her bestie Grace and how she showed up for Liz and just helped - sitting with her, bringing her food, reminding her to shower, etc. She truly is the type of friend everyone deserves. Mark was so supportive, and their instant connection was believable. I loved their flirty banter and the mystery that he knew everything about her, but she knew nothing about him. My only complaint is that Liz was a little frustrating as she was always very quick to assume the worst.
TLDR: I definitely recommend this one. I was so caught up in the secret life and mystery that I couldn't turn the pages quickly enough!
✨️Contemporary Fiction
✨️Rom/Com
✨️Mystery
✨️Slow Burn
✨️Self Discovery
✨️Grandma's Secret Life
✨️Matchmaking
𝘓𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥, 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘺. 𝘌𝘯𝘫𝘰𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘥𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦.
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